Making the Capital's EV policy women-friendly

With the Prime Minister calling for reducing fuel usage to offset the impact of the war in West Asia, this might be an opportune moment to look at alternatives with a focus on women.

- Lalita Panicker

With the Prime Minister calling for reducing fuel usage to offset the impact of the war in West Asia, this might be an opportune moment to look at alternatives with a focus on women. A look at the draft Delhi EV Policy (2026-30) is instructive. Last year, NITI Aayog issued two circulars directed at state nodal agencies responsible for preparing electric mobility policies. It recommended preparing electric vehicle (EV) policies which would skill, upskill and reskill women in the entire EV value chain. States were to ensure that the location, operation and upkeep of charging stations would create a safe and secure environment for women. Electric bus depots can be designed to be safe, well-lit, and provide resting areas for women along with gender-segregated hygienic toilets and sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators.